The typical old-style Percheron
(Percheron postier) was a grey harness horse which was from 15.2 to
16 hands high, and was famous for his very useful ability to trot
fast and long, with a heavy load behind him.
The breed's history is obscure and difficult to trace. It has
been generally accepted that the Cayuse Indian Pony descended from
the French-Norman horses imported into Canada in the 1600s. Most of
these French horses were Percherons, which the Canadians used to
improve their domestic breeds. The Percheron was a good choice -- it
continues to be one of the only work horses which can easily trot
for extended periods of time.

Image copyright Feenixx Publishing.
All right reserved. May not be used without prior written consent.